CHRISTIAN Benteke has barged his way into Paul Lambert’s thinking for a start at Southampton with the Villa boss now blessed with options in most positions.

CHRISTIAN Benteke has barged his way into Paul Lambert’s thinking for a start at Southampton with the Villa boss now blessed with options in most positions.

Benteke is breathing down Andi Weimann’s neck for a starting role up front alongside Darren Bent as the claret and blues head for Southampton.

The beast of Belgium’s goal and encouraging 19-minute substitute appearance highlighted the forward options Lambert now has. Indeed, the boss must decide whether to again name a bench packed with attackers. Benteke, Gabby Agbonlahor, Jordan Bowery and Charles N’Zogbia were all among the substitutes for last weekend’s win over Swansea.

The other outfield subs at Villa Park six days ago were Ashley Westwood and Joe Bennett. Westwood came on as a 71st-minute replacement for Stephen Ireland and the former Crewe captain’s calm and composed cameo will be fresh in Lambert’s mind as he contemplates the make-up of his midfield at St Mary’s.

Bennett is pushing for his debut but Eric Lichaj has performed well at left-back during Villa’s recent turnaround.

Lambert must also decide if there are squad places for fit-again midfielders Chris Herd and Fabian Delph, who missed out last weekend. Marc Albrighton has resumed training after a broken foot but is not expected to be involved.